FYI Datebook

Heart of San Marcos Hike: San Marcos Community Services hosts a free Heart of the City Hike on Jan. 8. The 3 1/2 –mile hike starts at 9 a.m. at the outdoor hearth at the Community Center, 3 Civic Center Drive and follows urban trails along the rail trail east, through Hollandia Park and the trails near Mulberry Park. Sign-up starts at 8:30 a.m. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring water and snacks. Dogs must be on a leash. Information: (760) 744-9000, Ext. 3508.

Hawkwatch: Visit the raptor hotspot at the Ramona Grasslands Preserve, where 19 species of raptors have been observed, and learn about hawks and eagles during free educational programs 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays in January and February hosted by the Wildlife Research Institute. See demonstrations of hawk banding and eagle tracking. Meet at the institute, 18030 Highland Valley Road, Ramona. (760) 789-3992 or www.wildlife-research.org.

Bird Watching: Join bird watchers 8 to 9 a.m. the first monday of the month at the San Diego Botanic Garden, 230 Quail Gardens Drive, www.SDBGarden.org.

Star Parties: The MiraCosta College astronomy department hosts viewing events from 8 to 10 p.m. on the first Friday and Saturday at MiraCosta College baseball field in Oceanside. Free and open to the public. Information: (760) 757-2121, Ext. 6201.

Vista Garden Club: Meets noon Jan. 7 at the Gloria McClellan Senior Center, 1700 Vale Terrace in Vista. Begins with fingertip luncheon followed by brief business meeting and program with George Speer who will demonstrate the use of unusual materials in Floral Design.(760) 726-8737.